Cabin Fever with My First Flame

by Madison Love

I'm a chef who can handle the heat. He's a firefighter that can douse a flame. But when sparks reignite between us and old fires begin to burn, dialing 9-1-1 is the last thing on my mind.

After my divorce, I got the better end of the deal with three sassy daughters, my food truck, and what was left in the bank account.

Two hundred dollars doesn't go far, but it got me three tanks of gas and a fresh start. The problem is, I needed four.

Being stranded on the side of the road isn't the end of the world—unless it's during a blizzard and we're rescued by the one person I never wanted to see again.

Finn Hollister—a.k.a.—My first love. Heartbreaker. Handsome hooligan.
Based on the three miniature versions of my ex-boyfriend glaring at me, I could also add "Dad" to that list.

Stuck in a cabin with Finn and six kids ready to play matchmaker was not how I planned to spend the holidays. And when it comes time to make our Christmas wish lists, Finn asks for one thing.

I just don't know if I can afford to give it to him.


Cabin Fever With My First Flame is the tenth standalone novel in a twelve-book multi-author compilation known as the Sweet Christmas Kisses Series. While reading this book, readers can expect a kisses-only, clean holiday romance with no profanity, plenty of banter and hijinks, and a HEA._______________________________________________________________________________________________

WELCOME to the Sweet Christmas Kisses Series!

Experience the enchantment of these twelve standalone kisses-only romance novels, where love sparkles brighter than holiday lights.

Each tale is filled with heartwarming and swoony moments, festive cheer, and joyous holiday miracles. Let these happily ever afters make your Christmas season unforgettable!

We hope you enjoy each one!

Jingle Bells Rock and Roll by Evie Sterling
A Doctor's Snowed In Christmas Wish by Daisy Flynn
Love Rekindled at Evergreen Inn by Willa Lyons
Stuck with My Christmas Crush by Francesca Spencer
A Not So Merry Ex-Mas by Abby Greyson
A Christmas Call of Duty by Ava Wakefield
Finding Me In The Storm by Hazel Belle
Snowbound With My Grumpy Ex by Lily Waters
Sleighed by The Farmer's Daughter by Deanna Lilly
Cabin Fever With My First Flame by Madison Love
Faking It with My Bossy Ex by Leah Blair
A Holly Jolly Mix Up by Bella Greene

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Contemporary, Holiday, Christian, Forced Proximity, Clean Romance

239 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 6, 2024

About the author

Best Selling, Award Winning Author, Madison Love enjoys writing clean and Christian romances while intertwining humor, faith, and suspense. She has spent most of her life traveling abroad, discovering new places, and meeting wonderful people. She spent twenty years in the military before settling in a rural town outside of Buffalo, New York, where she now lives on a forty-acre farm with her husband, son, and two dogs. Having been afforded the time and opportunity to bring her ideas and stories to life, she seeks to give her readers the ‘happy ever after’ they seek.

***2024 Global Book Awards Gold Medal Winner in Women's Christian Fiction***

***2024 Global Book Awards Silver Medal Winner in Clean Romance***

*** Recipient of the 2025 Christlit Book Award for The Shining Knight Protector Series ***

*** Recipient of the 2025 Christlit Book Award for The Beanbaggers of Cornhole County ***

Reviews

[Анастасія ꒰⁠⑅⁠ᵕ⁠༚⁠ᵕ⁠꒱⁠˖⁠♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Головні герої цієї книжки: Бейлі та Фінн.
Бейлі вирішила повернутися після свого розлучення додому разом з трьома доньками, і там вона застрягає зними у автівці, де їх і якась рятують Фінн та його племінники. Зазначу те, що вони вже знайомі і вона взагалі були закохані в підлітковому віці, але трапився Даніель, який збрехав їм обом, в результаті Даніель одружився на Бейлі, а Фінн повірив, що вона його зрадила та відмовився від неї. З одного боку якось і можна зрозуміти, але ж з іншого, ЯКЩО Ж ВИ ЗАКОХАНІ ТАК, ТО ЧОМУ НЕ ЗНАЙТИ ЯК ЗВ'ЯЗАТИСЯ, або я не уважно читала, бо єдине що я запам'ятала це було письмо, яке писала сестра Фінна, але Даніель особисто їй відповів, що Бейлі не бажає з нею спілкуватися, і тут теж дивна поведінка Бейлі, тобто її не турбує, що всі з її містечка перестали з нею спілкуватися? Ось думки взагалі ніякої не було? В цій книжці мені ще сподобались діти, а їх аж 6, сподобалась їхня взаємодія одним з одним.

[Daria Li · Rating 3 out of 5]

Мені б сподобалась новела, якби вона не була релігійною. Так-так. Це релігійна романтична комедія з палкими поцілунками. Наче мене надурили "свідки Єгови" і намагались заманити у секту. Всі герої молились, звертались у святкових листах до Ісуса, ходили у неділю до церкви і іншим радили. Треба було відразу щось запідозрити від імені одного із хлопчиків – Ісаак. Що це було... Завтра буду читати дарк роман або новелу. Думаю, на цій новелі я завершую різдвяний марафон любовних романів. Хочу тепер прочитати про звичайного сталкера, який любить первісну гру і гру зі зброєю.

[Shayna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gosh, can you imagine being snowed in with SIX kids!? There absolutely would not be a dull moment, and that was absolutely true throughout this story. The kids were such a fun, refreshing part of Bailey and Finn's story. They were also the best matchmakers! Total Parent Trap-like vibes!

I loved the character development and how relatable the characters were. It's definitely a feel good story. If you're a sucker for second chance romance and meddling kids like me, this is perfect for you!

🌨️ second chance
🍽️ forgiveness
🌨️ forced proximity
🍽️ friends to enemies to more
🌨️ found family
🍽️ Christmas romance

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bailey Johnson gets herself and her young girls stranded in an onslaught of a snowstorm that is only expected to further snowball into a danger zone.Thank heavens she manages to hail help over satellite phone. Help arrives with one big surprise , which comes in the form of her first love Finn. She was just telling her girls all about him ?…What are the odds she is rescued by the man who abandoned her all those years ago ? It’s only when he calls her “Bailey Bug” that she realises who he is “ Finn?” Oh no! “Why would I come back after….You know what? It doesn’t matter. We’ll leave the past where it belongs. Regardless, you’re stuck with us until the storm passes. It’s either that or you spend the next few days in your truck. Take it or leave it.” She nods and accepts , being taken to his cabin as the storm is too fierce to get to her parents’ place. So why was he thinking THAT way when it was SHE actually missed HIM when he was away? …But now she frets over her feelings for Finn , well it’s just because she was discussing him …. that’s all… she reasons to herself..She went by the name of McManamara when he was with her ,Johnson the name his friend Daniel’s , her ex who is getting married over Christmas her kids blurted out to Finn much to their mother’s chagrin. “I don’t suppose you know how to cook now. I remember that you used to burn nearly everything.” Finn jokes “Finn, I own a food truck and had a restaurant until a few months ago. I certainly hope that cooking is a skill I possess. If not, then I’ve disappointed more than half of Myrtle Beach and thousands of tourists.” What a way to break the Ice Finn and I don’t mean by the mode of transport you got them to the cabin on!... They’re snowed in for a few days at least so make do is all they can.. well do… “I promise I’m trying my best to pick up the pieces of my life and move on, Finn, but it’s really none of your concern. I’m a big girl, and like you, I’ve LEARNED from my mistakes. I, TOO, never plan on making the same one twice.” Well Finn just got burned but it does get better… There’s lots of hilarious and fun things going on (so no need to fetter…) between the kids and the mom and the guardian . She falls for him in the most hilarious ways , oof is all HE has to say , as he gets up off the floor . Oh my ,this couple , I do adore .They don’t have to try it’s just chaos and mayhem! And more! The most awesomeness of puns they’re firing at each other like guns . It’s even more fun when their hearts they aren’t a guarding.They all seem to get along fine and spending time together which is rewarding , a feeling divine. Let go of the past they must and in each other , trust just fine. Not in hearsay and untruth but in actions and doing and eyes open wide , step inside the joy of Christmas time. The love and holiday wooing. Billing and cooing , well it’s better than mooing and being bullish , because after all what does THAT accomplish? Wonderful Christmas time story by Maddison Love . Of this great , romantic and hilariously described , divine masterpiece I couldn’t get enough . Love , laughter and peace thereafter. And happily after? Yes please , that would be a perfect fit. Because you know what ? That would appease and I really enjoyed reading it.

[Hannah Fuller · Rating 5 out of 5]

☃️ARC REVIEW☃️ Cabin Fever with My First Flame is the 10th of the 12 books in the Sweet Christmas Kisses series.

This book is so well written! It includes some of my favorite tropes such as enemies to lovers, forced proximity, and second chances, all of which were executed perfectly! ❤️‍🔥

Bailey is a chef 👩🏻‍🍳 who is recently divorced, and is on her way back to her hometown with her three daughters with not enough money for gas to make it. A snowstorm is quickly approaching and they end up stranded on the side of the road. Little does she know, the help that is on the way is her first love, Finn Hollister (aka her ex’s former best friend) towing along 3 boys! 🚒🔥Finn recently moved back to town after moving to California to fight fires, leaving behind Bailey and causing a whole lot of heartache. But there’s confusion that needs to be cleared up between the two, which may just come to light when Bailey and the girls have to take refuge with Finn and the boys.

I just love how the kids works together to get Finn and Bailey to confront each other and get them together. It reminded me of a parent trap situation. Seeing Bailey develop into a happier version of herself again after her divorce and watching her and Finn’s former flame relight was so magical. The story includes a little bit of faith, which I thought was a really special touch, while not going overboard. After all of the things were worked out between Bailey and Finn, the story is filled with so much more detail and keeps you interested until the very last page. There are many emotions that are felt along the way, and so well executed! That to me makes the story more compelling.
We even get to see how Daniel, Bailey’s ex, developed and became a better man. I loved how relatable the characters were while they developed and worked through their pasts.

The romance doesn’t skimp out on the sizzle🥵 although it is clean and closed door!
I really recommend reading this clean holiday romance novella! ❤️🎄🧑🏻‍🚒👩🏻‍🍳


Thank you to the author for the copy of this book.
All my opinions are honest and voluntary!

[Chad Barrus · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an
early review.

I really have enjoyed this series and this latest book is no exception! A woman heading home with her three daughters for Christmas after her divorce finds herself in a blizzard and her truck out of gas because the gauge is frozen. She calls for help before the cell dies and a short time later the last person she ever expected to see shows up to rescue her- the man who broke her heart 18 years ago!

Thus the stage is set for the reuniting of two old high school lovers who really never got over each other. Both carry hurt feelings and it finally takes a while stuck in a cozy cabin with a blizzard raging outside to finally get them to talk and find out what happened and discover that it was a third person who interfered
and ruined their happily ever after so many years ago. Now can Bailey trust that Finn won’t break her heart again when she knows he’s never stopped loving her and the three boys he’s raising are his sister’s children since both she and her husband have both passed away?

Things get a bit complicated when Bailey’s ex shows up after the blizzard but it’s only to try and form a relationship with the girls and not his ex wife.

This is a great heartwarming story of eight people- six kids and two adults who get stuck in a cozy cabin
In a blizzard who find that they actually like each other and that the kids start to play matchmakers to get Bailey and Finn back together again when they realize that they were in love with each other back in high school.

I highly recommend this book and this series! These books are terrific for Christmas and really for any time of the year! They are stories that make you feel good all over and certainly make you feel what Christmas should feel like! That spirit should reflect on how we feel year round so that’s why I suggest you re read these books again and again to recapture that special spirit you felt when you read it the first time!

It and the other stories in this series are not to be missed! Get them all today and read them again and again to remember the feelings you had when you read them the very first time! You’ll find yourself in a happier frame of mind after you read these books I guarantee it!!

[Carissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cabin Fever with My First Flame is the tenth installment in the multi-author series Sweet Christmas Kisses. It can be read as a standalone. I loved this story so much!! It had me laughing all throughout the book!

Chef Bailey is recently divorced and is looking to start over in her home town with her three girls. With gas running out and a snowstorm quickly approaching, they get stuck and stranded on the side of the road. Little does she know, her first love and the one person she never wants to see again comes to her rescue. Firefighter Finn and his three nephews open their home to Bailey and the girls. While they are all stranded together, will Bailey and Finn be able to clear up the past and move forward friends, maybe more? Sparks fly again or did they ever stop??

I absolutely loved the 6 kids and how they worked together to get Finn and Bailey to talk and work things out. Watching Finn and Bailey reignite their old flame was nothing short of magical! All the characters are very well developed and are full of depth and emotion. It is so easy to relate to all of the characters! I love the forced proximity, enemies to lovers and second chance tropes! Some of my favorite tropes are all wrapped up in this sweet Christmas book!

I highly recommend this book for the holiday season!

Thank you to the author for the copy of this book. All thoughts and options are my own.

[Mary Ann Speel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book in this series by different authors. Loved this book and the characters in it. It starts out with the h traveling home in an unexpected blizzard in a food truck with her three daughters. She runs out of gas due to a faulty gas gauge and calls for help. Help is sent and turns out to be her ex boyfriend and his nephew who come on snow mobiles. They live near by in a cabin that they just moved into. The H has been awarded custody of his tree nephews at the death of his sister and has returned to his home town so he will have the support of his parents. The h is returning home for a new start after a divorce. Neither is happy to be together. The h believes that she was ditched by the H when he left to get trained in fighting fires. The H believes that the h was unfaithful before and while he was gone. Even with the animosity between them they finally communicated and realized that the H’s best friend and the h’s husband lied to both of them so that he could break them up and marry the h. In the end the husband was unfaithful, sells their restaurant without the h’s knowledge and pays off the house mortgage thinking he will get the house in the divorce settlement which he didn’t. He only gets half. During the time the two families are forced to live together the children become friends and enjoy their time together. After the snow stops the H with the help of his teenage nephew dig out a path to the snow mobiles and a path to the cabin where they can get the children and the h out and on to the snow mobiles to take them to town and the h’s parents house and the H’s parents house. In the end the H and h are married and get their HEA. The husband also experiences a real change of heart and becomes the father and friend he is called to be and a surprise ending occurs. Hope you enjoy reading this book as much as I did.

[Randi Sampson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cabin Fever With My First Flame is the tenth book in the Sweet Christmas Kisses series. This is a multi-author series with all books being able to be enjoyed in any order or as standalones.

This was such a fun holiday read. After her divorce, Bailey is making her way back to her hometown with her three children for a fresh start... which gets off to a rough start when they run out of a gas just before a snowstorm... and she's rescued by the last person she wanted to see--- her high school love. Snowed in together with six kids!? Oh yes, you can imagine the fun that follows! This story definitely had all the Brady Bunch/Yours Mine and Ours vibes and I absolutely loved it! The kids added so much fun to the story and definitely felt like real kids (fart humor and all). There was definitely some miscommunication keeping them apart, and while I know that that's not everyone's cup of tea, I thought it was done really well in this story. The more we learn about what happened in their past, the more I found myself looking forward to getting the happily ever after they should have had back then.

Cabin Fever With My First Flame is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It does have some light faith elements as well.

**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.

[Linsey Toney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cabin Fever with My first Flame is a really good second chance romance.

However, this book has lots of religious talk and ideas so if that isn't your thing then you likely won't enjoy this book. "Jesus is the reason for the season", "Jesus birthday", " Dear Jesus" ...
It doesn't bother me but Jesus is mentioned 9 x's and God 31 x's so for me it is a bit much in a short story.

If that doesn't bother you then it is a great read.

Please also be aware this book does touch on some tough topic's that maybe hard for some readers. There is mention of a affair, divorce, and loss of a sister none are very detailed but just so you are aware if they effect you.

[Chia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Madison Love captures the magic of rekindled romance in Cabin Fever With My First Flame.

The emotional depth of the characters, paired with the nostalgia of first love, makes this story deeply engaging. Love’s vivid descriptions of the snowbound cabin create an intimate and enchanting setting for the couple’s reconnection.

This book is a heartfelt and cozy read that’s perfect for curling up with during the holidays.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't normally enjoy 2nd chance romances.

But this one was well written, a beautiful and emotional book that sucked you in. I highly recommend this book to any Christian girls who are in a Christmas mood and need some good news. The kisses are swoon worthy, you can almost smell the baked goods and the promises are heartfelt and kept.

[Анастасія Земляна · Rating 5 out of 5]

Прекрасна, мила, тепла, різдвяна книжечка 🥰🥰

[Livy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read most of the Sweet Christmas kisses Series but this one by far is my favorite!

So we’re first introduced to a mom, recently divorced with three kids starting over in a new town- her hometown. The same hometown where she left her first love. I love the dynamic between Bailey and her daughters, especially how she interacts with her oldest daughter.

You then meet Finn, who has recently moved back to take care of his sister’s three kids after she passed. He’s in a little over his head. But you can tell he truly cares about them and wants what’s best for them.

When Bailey get stuck on the side of the road, you know it’s Finn that’s gonna find them and save them.

As soon as you’re introduced to both Finn and Bailey- hearing their perspectives on the past- you know something is fishy. I was like no no Daniel what did you do!! Luckily, we didn’t have to wait long to hear the story from both sides. And then you’re rooting for them to find their way back to each other to get their happily ever after.

I must say it first I was super frustrated without Bailey handled the truth. How could she not be mad at Daniel?! But the more I read the more I liked how she handled the situation. Why be angry about a past that you can’t change especially when you have three daughters that you love? Why not focus on the present and the future!

Two adults with a complicated history, and six kids—3 sisters and 3 brothers nonetheless— under one roof snowed in a storm. Add in the two oldest trying to be matchmakers- you have a recipe for an amazingly cute and funny romcom.

This way first book by Madison Love but definitely won’t be my last!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sandy Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the tenth book of twelve in the Sweet Christmas Kisses series by twelve different authors. This is the first book I have read by Madison Love and I thoroughly enjoyed this quick Christian holiday read!
Bailey is returning home to Lake George, NY with her three daughters after a divorce, and loss of her restaurant due to her dishonest ex-husband, Daniel. It’s a few days before Christmas and the food truck she is driving gets stuck because of a major snowstorm. Her rescuer is none other than her first love, elite firefighter Finn Hollister!
Bailey and her three daughters are forced to stay at Finn’s cabin along with him and his three nephews. The six kids are all about wanting Bailey and Finn to get together and they do everything they can to make it happen! They are smart, funny, and really understand what the Christmas spirit is all about! Bailey and Finn’s relationship ended because of lies told by her ex-husband. The time they spend together allows them to learn the truth about what really happened many years ago, find a path to forgiveness, and consider a new future together.
However, there is a surprising twist at the end, so you must read this book to find out if Bailey and Finn will get their happily-ever-after!
I received an ARC of this book from BookSirens and my review is my own voluntary and honest review.

[DayDreamer8912 · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5
Genre: Clean Romance/ Christian Romance
🚨TW: mentions about loss of love one, blizzard

Read it if you like
🎄Dual POV
🎄 Single parent
🎄 Forced Proximity
🎄 Kids matchmaking adults
🎄 Faith filled
🎄 Second Chance love
🎄 Small town
🎄 Cozy Christmas tradition

Favourite Moments
🎄When he and his nephew save her and her daughters from the blizzard
🎄 Making cookies and decorating together with the children.
🎄 The teenagers encouraging them. (can’t spoil it)
🎄 Them opening up to each other.
🎄 Their Christmas tradition activities
🎄 Every moment they have the with children.
(lots more)

Swoony Moments
🎄 After so many years, he still loves her.
🎄 He cares for her and the children
🎄 He waited for her to be ready
🎄 He is great with the children.


Synopsis:
Bailey
A chef who has three beautiful daughters. Loves baking and cooking.

Finn
A firefighter who is a guardian of three beautiful boys because his sister and husband had passed away. He is still in love with his first love.

One day, Bailey and her daughters were on the way to her parent’s house for Christmas and also to have a fresh start but they were stuck in the blizzard because the fuel of her car is empty. They were saved by a knock on the door and it turns out to be her first love and his boys. The blizzard was horrible so she had to take up the offer of staying his place for a while. Will they able to get along? What? Everything that happened in the past it is actually a misunderstanding? Read Cabin Fever with My First Flame to find out!!

Review:
Love this story so much. Bailey and her daughters were caught in a blizzard and her first love came to rescue her. Their misunderstanding was actually made by her ex -husband who was also their best friend. The kids were trying to matchmake them together again especially the two other kids who were just mature for their age. And their time together making Christmas traditions happen were so fun and sweet. As they were stuck together because of the blizzard, they get to know each other and their feelings for each other began to grow. Love that they open up to each other and the way he cares for her, her daughters and also his nephews. And the two older kids are like adults giving them relationship advices so cute. I wish that Madison will write these two happily ever afters when they grow up too. Love the idea of writing letters to God and read them out on Christmas day. And also the people around them work together to help them be together. (not going to give spoilers read to find out how they did it) This story made me smile, laugh, swoon, feel the warmth though there is blizzard in the story.

What I learn from this story:
Never ever lie. See what lie can bring. From a small lie became a big lie, and whatever is in the dark will comes to light because there is no way you can hide it no matter how hard you try to hide it. And though you can hide it from people but you can never hide from God. God knows what is inside our hearts. Will God forgive if we repent? Yes, even man will not forgive but God will forgive but we can’t take God’s forgiveness for granted. And also be brave to apologize to someone you have hurt or lied too just like Daniel did.

Learn about Forgiveness too. It’s hard to forgive a person who had lied and hurt you but what can we do? Pray about it let God help you to forgive the person especially when the person already apologizes. Like what Bailey does, she forgave Daniel.

I was gifted complimentary ARC from BookSirens. All opinions are my own. Thanks @madisonlove_romance for the ARC.

This is the 10th standalone novel of the Sweet Christmas Kisses Series. It is a series that is written by 12 amazing authors. Can’t wait to read the rest of the books in the series.

You can purchase this book on Amazon and it’s available on KU.

[Rebel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Madison Love’s Cabin Fever With My First Flame is a delightful second-chance romance that combines humor, heart, and holiday cheer into one irresistible package. As the tenth book in the Sweet Christmas Kisses series, this charming romcom stands out for its mix of sweet romance and relatable, down-to-earth characters.

The story centers on Sara, a hardworking chef who has recently gone through a tough divorce but is determined to start fresh with her three daughters. With a food truck and a few dollars to her name, she’s doing her best to move forward. But when a blizzard leaves her stranded on the side of the road, the last person she expects to rescue her is Finn Hollister—the one who broke her heart years ago. Finn, now a firefighter with a big heart and a bit of a rough-around-the-edges charm, was once Sara’s first love, and their reunion is anything but simple.

The chemistry between Sara and Finn is electric from the very first moment they’re reunited, and the sparks that fly between them are undeniable. But as they’re forced to spend time together in a cozy cabin with Sara’s kids—and with their past unresolved—the tension quickly becomes more than just a nostalgic flame. What I loved about this story is how the author seamlessly blends humor with deeper emotional layers. The dynamic between Sara, Finn, and their six kids is hilarious, and their mischievous matchmaking antics add a whole new level of fun to the story.

Sara is an incredibly relatable character, and I found myself rooting for her as she navigates the complexities of starting over, juggling motherhood, and reconciling her feelings for Finn. Finn, on the other hand, is the perfect mix of swoon-worthy hero and flawed, real man. His growth throughout the story, from a heartbreaker to someone truly ready to take responsibility for his actions and his future, was beautifully portrayed.

The holiday setting only enhances the story, with cozy cabin vibes, Christmas wish lists, and the heartwarming feel of a holiday romance. I loved the way the romance between Sara and Finn unfolded—it’s a story about forgiveness, taking chances on love, and finding your way back to happiness after life doesn’t go as planned. The balance of lighthearted humor and emotional depth made this book the perfect escape for anyone looking for a sweet, uplifting read.

Cabin Fever With My First Flame is a heartwarming, feel-good romance with just the right amount of steam, humor, and holiday magic. Whether you're a fan of second-chance romances, stories about family and growth, or just love a good holiday romcom, this book will definitely deliver. Madison Love has crafted a story that will leave you smiling long after you turn the last page.

Perfect for a cozy holiday read with a generous helping of sweet romance, laughter, and second chances. Highly recommended!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cabin Fever With My First Flame was the first book I have read written by Madison Love and will not be my last. This is the second book I have read in the Sweet Christmas Kisses Series, and I am hooked. As I currently write this review, I have already started my third book in the series. If you start this series, you will have to finish it. Cabin Fever is truly a hallmark Christmas book. It was an easy read, and once I started, I could not put it down.

The character development was good. I enjoyed getting to know Bailey as she goes through the heart ache of divorce and finds herself snowed-in a cabin with her first love Finn accompanied by six children. It was fun seeing how the kids interacted and got through this snowstorm while waiting for Christmas and dealing with the loss of a parent (half through divorce, half through death). Watching Finn and Bailey workout their past and see what the future would hold for them was a fun read. Also seeing the change in the Ex-husband was an interesting element as well.

The storyline and setting were cute. Stuck in a snowstorm in cabin with an ex. Just screams hallmark. If you are not a fan of hallmark-sweet, cheesy, predictable then this might not be your cup of tea. But sometimes we all need the prefect little story to make us dream.

The rekindled relationship between Finn and Bailey was perfect. I loved seeing them work through their past, and present issues. It was super clean, with nothing over the top. I enjoyed the sweetness and the appreciated getting to watch the relationship bloom again.
The romance was the perfect balance.

The Christian element was light, but I still appreciated that it was there. If you are looking for a clean Christmas romance heavy on the hallmark with light faith, this is the book for you.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the privilege of ARC reading this novel. It was the first time reading something of hers that wasn't in the suspense genre, but she remains one of my top favorite authors.

Finn & Bailey had a past. An immediate spark started a wildfire of emotions and they were ready for lifelong love.... But miscommunication and lies tore their bond down and sent them on their separate ways until one fateful day when Bailey and her three daughters get stuck in a massive storm. Of all people coming to their rescue is the last person Bailey ever thought she'd see again.

This cozy story is such an incredible read. A dreamy firefighter who still holds a torch for the woman he'd loved and still did after 18 years. A newly single mom with sassy daughters who are too irresistible not to love. 6 people, 4 of whom are adolescents stuck in a cabin buried in snow you would assume a catastrophe would ensue. But Madison shows us a group of people (kids included) who choose to make the best of a bad situation.

The kids are amazingly wise and insightful. Which may not be realistic for
"most" kids. But when you're a child and witness darkness, a part of your childness dies to make room for processing big feelings. The best part of this one is how Madison grounded this story in the word of God. Experiencing dark times without Christ can leave one bitter and cold. But God places us where we need to be, even with use of a storm.
And I loved that they ALL teamed up on Bailey and Finn. Secrets, miscommunications and lies were hashed out and that led to a few steamy kisses and Finn making a spa like experience for Bailey when he sees her getting overwhelmed.

This book is a must read. Again, I would give it more than 5 stars if I could. If you're looking for a cozy Christian romance to curl up with on a chilly day, this is the story you're looking for!

[Crafty Lady Dyess · Rating 5 out of 5]

second Chance at Love and Forgiveness

I have to say Madison Love did a phenomenal job at writing this book. I really didn’t know what to expect when I first started reading it, but after the first couple of pages, she had my attention captivated, and I have to say I wanted to continue reading till I was finished. The message of the whole book was so powerful and I was very excited to continue till I was finished. I didn’t know if it was going to be somewhat like a Hallmark movie and story, but the whole story and outcome totally surprised me. It was somewhat like a combination of a Hallmark movie and the Disney movie of “Yours, Mine, and Ours”.
I have to say one of the best parts of the book for me was the way she incorporated the idea of forgiveness between the main characters of Bailey and Finn and the later in the book between Bailey, Finn, and Daniel. We’re always taught how we should forgive others and to the extent we need to go to accomplish this task, but the author brought it out in such a way that it was so good and done in the right way. Even when two people in a relationship are wronged by each other and it has been years since that has taken place, there’s still time to ask forgiveness and forgive them and yourself and move on.
The last part that was very well managed in this story was how the mother (Jenny) of the three boys that Finn became a guardian for taught her boys about rather than ask things of Santa for Christmas, that you can write a letter among yourselves and what you can ask Jesus for at Christmas since it is His birthday. This was a great idea that was incorporated into the story between the two families of Bailey and Finn.
KUDOS to Madison Love on a job well-done for this book. I have to say this has been one of the best books I’ve read in the last year. I look forward to reading more of her literary works.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great holiday story about second chances abd forgiveness. Death and grief was a significant topic throughout the book, as there were multiple forms of loss experienced by the various characters. All the players in this very Brady-ish tale were simply divinely crafted, starting with Finn, the MMC. He was a strong protective type Alpha that was a complete cinnamon roll for the woman he loved. Bailey, the FMC, was equally as soft on the inside, though she had developed a tougher outter she'll (through necessity). Life hadn't gone how either had seen it going, and they both blamed the other. Funny how life works that way. As frusterating as it can be in second chance romances, remembering that they were teenagers the first time, with reasoning to match, makes actions understandable. Especially as more information continues to be sprinkled even after the bombshell discovery.

Now, the kids (Bailey's 3 girls and Finn's 3 boys) were a handful, and completely magical. I could picture some of these scenes and was laughing out loud as I read. This was a fun, lighthearted, heartwarming book, where I felt like I was part of the family. That said, forgiveness was given quite freely, maybe too much so, given one person's agreegous actions (not a singular event but ongoing). It crossed into abuse in my opinion. Those actions were simply glossed over and he was certainly never heald accountable. Isolating someone IS abuse and brushing it off is not acceptable. That is the reason for the single star loss. Otherwise this is a phenomenal book.

I did receive a gift copy and volunteered my review. Happy Reading Y'all 📚

[Star-Book Reviewer]

This is the ONE you want to read! Especially if you enjoy second chances and loved the Brady Bunch… maybe I’m revealing my age… but this addition to the multi-author Sweet Christmas Kisses series brings Bailey McNamara Johnson McNamara (yes that’s correct on the name) back to her hometown with her three daughters during a blizzard to find them stranded on the side of the road. Now can you guess who will come to her rescue? Well, of course, it’s Finn Hollister, the boyfriend who left the small town promising to come back for her yet sent her a heartbreaking letter instead. Yes, Finn who is supposed to be in California shows up with three young boys in tow to rescue the damsels in distress taking them all back to his remote cabin where the truths will be revealed.

I have to admit I caught myself laughing more than a few times. The rescue scene with Micah rolling his eyes, the kid’s argument over the stinky home, Ella stunned by shirtless Finn, and Bailey opening the door to the wall of snow are a few I remember. And the romance is swoon worthy. He makes her a bath with bubbles and candles, she remembers his favorite pancakes and cookies, he calls her “Bailey Bug”, speaks into her ear, kisses her knuckles, catches her when she falls and what he does at the auction was a very original and crafty idea. But the most emotional, the most touching were the Christmas letters to God and they had my tears flowing. Yes, this is one of my favorites in this whole series offering sweet kisses and one sweet surprise at the end.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Terry T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Is a sweet close proximity, second chance,
frenemies to lovers, Christian Christmas romance with no cliffhanger.
Some of the lines I really like ---- “He’s getting married on Christmas to some hoochie-mama.” ---- If you don’t ask, then the answer is always going to be ‘No,’ and you’ll be left out. You have to speak up for yourself.” ---- “First, this place smelled like dirty socks. Now it smells like pickles. What’s next? A backed-up toilet?”---- "that forgiveness is possible no matter how much someone hurts you.” ---- "Food isn’t meant for fighting. It’s meant to show our love. We’re going to make a lot of love.” ---- we shouldn’t dislike someone because we think they’re not nice or because of someone else’s opinion. We should get to know them first and then decide for ourselves.” ---- “Loss is a part of life, Finn. If you give up what you love most, then a piece of you will die inside. You won’t be Finn anymore, but rather a shell of the man we know, love, and respect.” ---- “My mom would say that ‘Jesus is the reason for every season.’ ---- ‘acts of service are the best presents in the world because they never break or get shoved in the back of a closet!’” ----
What's Daniel up to? What's Micah up to? What's Ella up to? These and other questions will all be answered.
I love the children they made the story even better and were adorable.
I loved Bailey and Finn's story and I'm sure you will too. I've loved everyone of her books that I've read and can't wait to read her next book.

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bailey needs some new scenery and a fresh start away from her cheating ex-husband. She and her three daughters are on their way back to her hometown and her parents' house for Christmas in her food truck when they get stuck in a blizzard. She has to call for a rescue. The rescuer is none other than Finn Hollister, who broke her heart many years ago. Now she is stuck in his house with his three boys and her three girls while they wait out the blizzard. I was getting Brady Bunch vibes here.

The kids immediately take to one another, to the point of picking on one another like brothers and sisters. Bailey has a chip on her shoulder about Finn, but she will make the best of it. Finn also has a chip on his shoulder as well. To make matters worse for him, he has never stopped loving Bailey. Both are in for a surprise when they realize their assumptions about the other were dead wrong.

This was a really fun book to read. There were plenty of hilarious moments to make you laugh out loud, and then there were the tender moments as well. The Christmas traditions from each family were unique and they blended well together. I am a sucker for a second chance romance, and these two definitely deserved a second chance.

If you want a light Christmas read with comedy and clean romance, you will enjoy this final installment in this wonderful series.

Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Coffeenbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

- Sweet romance
- Second chance
- Friends to enemies to more
- Christmas romance
- Close proximity
- Snowed in

This is a sweet second chance romance that I absolutely enjoyed! This book conveyed the perfect blend of communication and forgiveness that is necessary for relationships.

After her marriage ends, Bailey and her 3 daughters are returning to her hometown in the Adirondacks to make a fresh start. All she has to her name is the food truck she is driving. However, a blizzard arrives ahead of schedule and Bailey and her daughters are stuck. Luckily, her first love and former boyfriend Finn, who is a firefighter, is part of the rescue crew. Unluckily, Bailey won't be able to make it to her parents' house and will be staying with Finn and his 3 wards. She hasn't forgiven Finn for leaving her abruptly after high school without a reason why.

Seeing Bailey after almost 2 decades brings back all of the feelings he had for her - good and bad. He hasn't moved on with another serious relationship since he found out what she did back in high school! I found it amusing that Finn's teenage nephew would be giving him pointers on rebuilding a relationship with Bailey. Plus there are 5 other little matchmakers working on this cause!

This is part of the multi author Sweet Christmas Kisses series, which has been such a joy to read!

[Dawn Marie Hedrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Heartwarming Holiday Delight!

Madison Love’s "Cabin Fever With My First Flame" is everything you could want in a second-chance holiday romcom—heartfelt, hilarious, and bursting with redemption. This sweet, Christian love story about a single mom, a food truck chef, and her first love, a rugged firefighter, delivers warmth like a roaring fire on a snowy night.

The forced-proximity trope works wonders here, thanks to the chaos and charm of six meddling kids. Watching the dynamic between the heroine and Finn was like savoring a slow-cooked holiday feast: full of anticipation, perfectly spiced with banter, and deeply satisfying. The author beautifully weaves themes of forgiveness, faith, and family, making it a story that resonates long after the final page.

The culinary and firefighter elements add unique flavor, with sizzling chemistry between the leads. The blizzard setting wraps the narrative in cozy holiday magic, and the ending is pure joy—a Christmas miracle worth waiting for.

If you love romantic comedies with heartfelt depth, lovable kids, and characters who earn their happy ending, "Cabin Fever With My First Flame" deserves a top spot on your holiday TBR. This book is an absolute 5-star gem!

I received a free copy of this book from Booksprout. My review is voluntary and honest. Neither author nor publisher have had any influence on my review.

[Gwen Chester · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great second chance for Bailey and Finn. And I am so glad that they landed the well deserved second chance. Since someone had interfered with their first chance.

This book starts with Bailey and her three daughters traveling and moving back to Bailey's home town for a fresh start after getting divorced. They are traveling in a food truck that might help support them in the future. Bailey had $1000 to travel on and make the trip home, that provided her with 3 tanks of gas. Which was almost enough to get them all of the way, but due to a snow storm coming down right now and them running out of gas, they were now sitting on the side of the road. Bailey called 911 and they promised to get there as soon as they could, but the storm was slowing things down.

The fire chief called Finn and asked him and the boys to pick up the family stranded on the side of the road. So Finn and the boys bundled up and headed out for a rescue. So now we have Finn Hollister aka Bailey's first love, the man that broke her heart on the way to pick them up. What will happen from here?
Check out this great book and you will find out, I did and sure enjoyed the ending.

[Sheila M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bailey McNamara Johnson and Finn Hollister were sweethearts 18 years ago, but they broke up and life took them in different directions. Bailey, now divorced and out of money, was driving her food truck back to her hometown with her three daughters when they broke down. Just her luck, it was while a blizzard was moving in. Bailey and her daughters were rescued by a man and three boys. Much to Bailey’s surprise, the man was Finn, who was back living in town with his nephews, and working as a firefighter. Bailey and Finn spent Christmas with the six kids in a cabin and rode the blizzard out. The plot was enjoyable, and there were many interesting characters, but my favorites were Ava and Micah. I was laughing hard when little Ava called her new stepmother a “hoochie-mama” and wanted to do anything that would create a mess. Micah was funny with all his quips. This was a sweet Christmas story and was well-written, providing an enjoyable experience beginning to end. I recommend this fun holiday romcom.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[John Belcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've only just started this book and found Daniel ( who now completely disgusts me) left his wife Bailey and thier three children for his secretary, telling his friend that she should be kept away from her first love Finn. Finn had promised Baikey he would return after three months of firefighter training to marry her but then quits calling and disappears to California. Bailey and her children become stranded in an unexpected snow storm due to a broken fuel gage, then a short time later, being rescued by none other than Finn, only to be brushed off from him when he recalls being told she and Daniel were together when that was Daniel's first major lie, just so he could have Bailey. Both Baiely and Finn are about to figure out the truth, since they both and six children are snowed in for the next week. Madison Love has blown this story out of the park. Her writing pulls you in making you feel you are part of the family, making you hurt and laugh along with the characters. This so far has been the best book I've read this year. I would give six or more stars if possible.

[Denise A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cabin Fever with My First Flame is a sweet, funny, Christian romance that was a delight to read! This is the first book I’ve read in this series but I am going to be reading more. I have read other Madison Love books and I’m loved them all, especially her Shining Knight Protectors series. In this book, both the MMC and the MFC were lied to, resulting in their breakup and Bailey marrying the man who told the lies. Bailey is now divorced from him and returning to her hometown with her three daughters. Finn has also recently returned there to raise his orphaned nephews. The characters are well written and the kids almost steal the show, causing many laugh out loud moments! There is faith and a trust in God weaved throughout the story that made the book even better, in my opinion. I would highly recommend this book if you’re in the mood for a story that would be perfect as a Hallmark movie!!

I received an early release ARC of this book. The review is my honest opinion and I was not compensated for my review.